Iris Sweeps Several Vision Rehabilitation Awards!

August 1, 2018

Iris Sweeps Several Vision Rehabilitation Awards!

The Association for Education and Rehabilitation (AER) of the Blind and Visually Impaired has offered their sincerest congratulations to three Iris Network employees for being nominated and winning awards at the AER International Conference that was held recently in Reno, Nevada. Each of these awards shows a strong dedication and understanding to the field of vision rehabilitation. David Barnwell presented the awards today and adds, "We are all very proud and honored to have each of you on The Iris Network staff and offer our sincerest congratulations!"

The Bruce McKenzie Award for Lifetime AchievementThe Bruce McKenzie award is a biennial award established by the VRT Division to honor Bruce McKenzie for his pioneering leadership in the field of rehabilitation teaching. It is the Division's highest award, presented to an exemplary individual for outstanding contributions to the field of rehabilitation teaching and independent living services. It is the Division's Lifetime Achievement Award.

This award was established in 2008 to honor Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (VRT) Division members who have written and published for the benefit of the field and the enhancement of our knowledge base. The VRT Division is offering a Publication Award to recognize a VRT Division member whose publication contributes highly to the field of Vision Rehabilitation Therapy. Submissions may include, but are not limited to, journal articles, books, chapters of books, and development of or significant contributions to websites. This award carries a $250 honorarium to further encourage VRT Division members to write and publish.

The Alice Raftary Rising Star AwardThis award was named for Alice Raftary in 2006 due to her mentoring and support of many new professionals to this field and her years of creative and dedicated work. She is a Living Legend and her story can be found in the American Printing House (APH) for the Blind Hall of Fame. The award shall be presented to an individual who demonstrates potential for exceptional leadership and is expected to provide a unique and lasting contribution to the field of Vision Rehabilitation Therapy.